The altercation occurred in the Strait of Hormuz between Oman and Iran, US defence officials told Reuters.

All of the Iranian vessels came within 800 metres of the Mahan, which was escorting two other US ships, officials said.

It comes just as Iran announced plans to increase military spending on missiles, drones and cyber warfare.

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GULF: This is not the first incident of this type to happen in the Gulf

President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to halt the development of Iran’s long-range missile programme.

In March, the incoming President said: “Those ballistic missiles, with a range of 1,250 miles, were designed to intimidate not only Israel ... but also intended to frighten Europe and someday maybe hit even the United States.”

He has also warned that any Iranian vessels harassing the US Navy in the Gulf will be “shot out of the water”.

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WARNINGS: Trump has said he will shoot Hassan Rouhani's harassing ships 'out of the water'

Another official said similar incidents occasionally happen in the Gulf.

In August another US shop fired warning shots towards a ship approaching them.

The official added that the warning shots were just one of seven interactions the Mahan had with Iranian vessels over the weekend, but the others were judged to be safe.